I make an effort to buy locally – not just during the holidays – but all year long. It’s easy to do with so many local artisans throughout the country. Try finding a beautiful pillow or a handmade ceramic bowl. You could also buy a wreath or floral arrangement done by someone in your hometown. This not only supports your local community but helps you to build connections with folks who live in your regional area. I’ve put together a few ideas that might help you figure out gifts that are locally sourced. Have fun shopping local this season! Shop the Gift Guide: Alabama Chanin for Heath Ceramics: Indigo Stitch Dinner Plate | Earth tu Face Organic Rosemary & Sea Salt Lotion | The Merchant Home: Porcelain Wall Pocket | Etta + Billie Ritual Roasters Coffee Mint Soap | Scribe 2013 Estate Pinot Noir | Marisa Mason Cielo Necklace | Quitokeeto California Sea Salt | St. Frank Peace Coasters | Mill Mercantile Ago Candle | Mineral Workshop Hand-Dyed Indigo Pillow | Flora Grubb Succulent Wreath #lifestyle

I find one of the easiest types of gifts to find are those meant for the “foodie” in your life. I have quite a few friends and family that fall into this category. It’s never difficult to find something they’ll love and surely use if I focus on the kitchen. There is always a new cookbook (like the one I’ve featured here) that will entice the most particular cook. A delicious olive oil or a new flavor of honey pair together perfectly to pop in a stocking, or for someone very special – why not give them the new Illy espresso and milk frothing machine. Big or small, we have you covered for the loved ones who can’t get themselves out of the kitchen. Shop the Gift Guide: Chamba Clay Cookware | Bees Knees Spicy Honey | Soapstone and Copper Pizza Stone | Hartwood Cookbook | Yield Design French Press | Cheese Set | Ila Extra Virgin Olive Oil | March Pantry Almond Butter | Midi Fog Linen Apron | Dansk Kobenstyle Saucepan | Illy Milk, Espresso & Coffee Machine | Marble and Wood Cutting Board #lifestyle

It’s so difficult for me to not say this is one of my favorite blooms in season because each month I almost always want to say this. That being said, I’m swooning over this month’s arrangement by Natalie. It’s Put together without any flowers – more a beautiful garland of items coming from nature – swags of cedar, pinecones, feathers, and berries. Bringing nature indoors at this time a year, gives you a chance to smell the outdoors even when you might not be able to go outdoors as much as in summer. I love the texture and variety of this piece and it doesn’t even have flowers! Flower varieties are clockwise from feather on the left. Pheasant Feather Thistle Oak Deodora Cedar Redwood Feathers (not sure what type) Silver Dollar Eucalyptus What was the inspiration behind using feathers? Where can someone find similar feathers? I like using non-floral elements in my garland to create an unexpected look that is long lasting. A garland is often up for a full month, so it is best to use components that won’t wilt easily. I find feathers to be a great way to to do this. Similar feathers can be found online or at Michaels. We love this beautiful, avant-garde take on a traditional garland. Tell us what inspired the concept and how it breaks the mold of traditional holiday decor. I’m most inspired by a seasonal and wintery look more than a traditionally Christmas look. When I decorate my own home, I want my guests to feel as if it is festive nut not screaming holiday! There are enough red berries and poinsettias out in the world, I strive for a clean and fresh look when approaching my holiday decorating. If someone is looking to have their garland or decor smell delicious, which greenery would you recommend? I find Cedar to be the green with the most pine fragrance. Cedar is also very lacy and delicate and has wonderful movement when it is hung. A simple garland made of only this variety is both classic and eye-cathing when hung up a staircase banister. For those looking to create a version of this look for themselves, what are some tips or tricks you can offer? Tip 1. When approaching this look at home, remember that you don’t need an actual garland or an actual mantle to achieve the same look. A few single branches laid linearly on the table can give the feeling of a garland without the weight or event he cost. You have more control over the movement when you use individual branches so you can play around with the shape a lot more. Tip 2. Use the heaviest branches first. They will anchor in the other branches and keep the design from slipping. Tip 3. Incorporate candles, feather and family heirlooms to make it a complete design that is personal to your home. Don’t stop with the greens, get creative and add other elements to make it uniquely yours. Lastly, what’s your favorite branch or type of greenery you can’t live without this holiday season? I am in love with the dusty gray color of the Deodora cedar this year. I also love the lichen covered branches for their natural shape and long lasting nature. I have a combination of these two with cyprus throughout my home this year. To get inspired by past Blooms in Season posts – click here. Flowers by Natalie Bowen Designs | Images by Ali Hartwell for Sacramento Street #lifestyle

Since the holidays are really intended for children, I’m thrilled to now join the category of parent and join in the fun of finding gifts for our little one. Honestly, Jackson is happiest with a large empty box or repeatedly pulling off all the books from his bookshelf. That being said, there are a few favorites I have highlighted here. I personally love items for children that are handmade or made from wood. I fell in love with this wooden croissant! And who wouldn’t want a gray kitchen to play in? I know that my favorite gift as a child would have been a pile of books inside the black and white striped teepee. A retreat for the reader in your life! Less is more – I’d rather get a few nice things than a house full of junk. Happy shopping! Shop the Gift Guide: Shape Sorter Board | Raccoon Softie | Watercolor Pencils | Confetti Guitar | Baby Wolf Slippers | “Chewie We’re Home” Tee | Iggy Peck Architect | Play Kitchen | Red Retro Pedal Car | Teepee | Croissant Teether #lifestyle

I’ve been tickled pink with the cooler weather we’ve been experiencing lately in San Francisco. I can finally layer on sweaters and scarves and feel the cool bite in the air. I just recently picked up several of my favorite pieces to stay warm from Madewell. I’m absolutely in love with my High Riser Skinny Skinny jeans in lunar. They fit like a glove and go perfectly with my neutral wardrobe. Layered on top, I chose the Drapefold Cardigan Sweater in black and the Contour Turtleneck Layering Vest in gray. To top it off I finished off the look with the Cape Scarf – that perfect layer to use in colder weather. We in the Bay Area are fortunate to have a new Madewell opening tomorrow in Walnut Creek at the Broadway Plaza. Come to enjoy sips and small bites with Toshiko Shek of It’s Not Her, It’s Me and Jeanne Chan of Shop Sweet Things while being entertained by a DJ and the newest arrivals from 7 – 9pm. Each shopper will get a complimentary Bien Fait tote bag with any purchase (while supplies last). If you can’t make it for cocktails, Madewell’s doors open at 10am and they’ll be handing out Madewell gift cards to the first 25 people who stop by. Outfit Details: Cape Scarf in Stripe | Contour Turtleneck Layering Vest Drapefold Cardigan Sweater | 9″ High Skinny Jeans in Lunar Now is the perfect time to pick up a few holiday gifts and maybe something for yourself too! This post is a partnership with Madewell. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting sponsored posts that keep Sacramento Street doors open. Images by Ali Hartwell for Sacramento Street

We all have a special guy in our lives – whether it’s your hubby, brother, dad, grandpa, or a close friend. Sometimes I find shopping for the guys either incredibly easy or I have a hard time figuring out what the perfect gift is . . . When shopping for men I always think about what they love – either hobbies, interests, sports, the list goes on. There is a part of me that wants to only get the basics but this year I’m trying to pick things that are a bit more exciting than the usual “let’s replenish your closet” type items. I’ve pulled together some of my favorites that will hopefully help inspire a gift for the men in your life. Activité Watch | D Keyring | Monroe Weekender Bag | Jack Rudy Cocktail Kit | Cashmere Beanie | American Sports 1970 | Portable Walnut Wireless Speaker | Red Wing Moc-Toe 875 Boots | Cashmere Crew | Grown Alchemist Shaving Gel #lifestyle

I am so fortunate to be living in a part of San Francisco that affords me incredible nature walks just paces away from my front door. I’m just a few short blocks from one of the most stunning and beautiful retreats in the world to exist inside a major city – the Presidio. I’ve always loved taking walks but since the birth of my son a year ago, I have made it a priority to take an afternoon walk with him almost every day. One place I tend towards is the Park Presidio – especially Lover’s Lane. I find all of my stress disappears when I step foot into the eucalyptus grove. Deep breaths of refreshing air are the perfect tonic to a hectic day. When you venture to this area, be sure to look closely between the trees to spot Andy Goldsworthy’s sculpture Wood Line. You can easily miss it as it melds perfectly with the eucalyptus branches. Having been brought up with a father who is a conservationist, getting into natural areas has always been a priority for me. It’s remarkable that a space first occupied by the Spanish in the 18th century, could still be present today for inhabitants to enjoy. And it isn’t just people who use the space – birds of prey and other species are often seen there. I am so thankful we have such an area put aside. No condos or high rises, this is a retreat for all to enjoy. The Trust for Public Land takes great satisfaction in their mission to “protect the places people care about,” and I have to say, I care deeply about the Presidio and Lovers’ Lane and with the help of the Trust, it should be around for generations to enjoy. This is an area too precious to lose. Outfit Details: Lululemon Go Take Off Fleece | High Times Pant | Go Everywhere Long Sleeve Shirt | Free To Be Bra | Warrior Scarf | I encourage you to join the movement to save our natural areas around the country. You might not be living in San Francisco, but there are countless other spaces the Trust has worked to save. Please leave your comments on why nature matters to you and consider going to the Trust for Public Land website to create a postcard for the #OurLand movement. This post is a partnership with Trust for Public Land. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting sponsored posts that keep Sacramento Street doors open. Images by Suzanna Scott for Sacramento Street #lifestyle

Every first Sunday of the month, one of the best flea markets in the Bay Area occurs – the Alameda Market. I’ve been going to this flea market since I moved to San Francisco. I furnished my first apartment almost entirely with items I found at the market. My flea market adventures began as a young girl as I went to antique and flea markets all over the world with my mom. I became her picker and combed the lower level areas – I was an expert at finding treasure underneath tables! When Chairish approached me and asked if I would go to Alameda for the day to shop for their site, I knew this was a no-brainer. This is a place I feel quite at home. I’ve known many of the dealers there for years and my house is filled with treasures I bought from them. Many of my clients also have things I’ve found at Alameda. On November 1st, we headed out at the crack of dawn for our shopping day. Believe me when I say this, you can find just about anything at Alameda. It was such fun picking through the treasures. These are instant keepsakes to have in your home. I’m always drawn to blue & white transfer ware and there was plenty to be had – some from Great Britain and others from France. I also found a stunning silver urn that could be used for a dramatic floral arrangement, a botanical print that would look great in any home, and champagne flutes to ring in the holiday season. French linen towels, a small watercolor painting, handmade pillows and more await you at Chairish. All of these items would make perfect gifts for the holidays. Sale Details: Sunday, December 6, 2015 Starting 10 am PST/1 pm EST Held on @shopchairishlive Instagram Prices for the 30 items are all under $100, inclusive of US shipping To buy – type #sold in the comment of the work that want to purchase. First person to comment #sold and complete their order is the buyer. Happy shopping! This post is a partnership with Chairish. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting sponsored posts that keep Sacramento Street doors open. #interiors

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Marissa Goodman Thieriot. I knew immediately that I wanted to do a workspace post on her incredible small business. As most of you know, whether I am designing a home or choosing my own clothes, I’m attracted to timeless style. When I saw the designs of Marissa’s line – Tempest + Bentley, I could relate to their updated classic look. It reminded me of when I would wear my father’s sweater when we’d go on long walks at the beach. Marissa started her company for all the right reasons – thinking about respect for natural resources as well as ethical production processes. As a fellow Oregonian transplanted in San Francisco, I look forward to Marissa’s success and I can’t wait to see all the beautiful sweaters she’ll have in store for us in the future. Give us a brief background of what inspired you to start Tempest + Bentley. What drew you to sweaters, specifically? I was a knitwear designer for the first ten years of my career. My first job was for a cashmere knitwear designer where I did everything from design sweaters, to run the production room, to ship orders. I learned about luxury fibers and knitting techniques and discovered that I enjoyed immensely, the process of designing and combining stitches, and working with yarn. I worked for numerous companies in San Francisco including Esprit before they moved oversees. While I was working as a designer for Old Navy, I really began to envision myself creating my own line. It wasn’t until I left corporate fashion and was five years in, working in fashion tech, that I felt ready to take on my own business. I also met my husband during this time and his work in sustainable agriculture and ranching greatly inspired my vision to create a line where design and ethical production were equally important. San Francisco is also cool and often foggy, year round. Most people here have a lot of sweaters. There’s nothing more comforting to me to wear than a super soft oversized sweater. From buttons to packaging, you’ve done a lot of work to ensure each aspect of the production process is aligned with sustainability. Why is this commitment so important to the brand? When I started the long process of researching yarns, trims, labels, factories and everything else, I didn’t know if I’d be able to find everything I would need to create the sweaters I hoped to design. It took time, but as I started piecing together the puzzle and discovered so many amazing businesses with either a rich history of manufacturing or ranching, or a modern vision of sustainability, or both, I became more passionate about making every piece of the brand focus on ethical design and manufacturing practices. My sourcing research inspired the aesthetics of the brand and even though Tempest + Bentley’s a new brand, there’s a lot of history in the sweaters. I’ve learned so much about the history of U.S. manufacturing, textiles and farming through this process and I’m excited to continue my education and see what else I discover. Where do you draw inspiration from? I’ve always loved my dad’s, my brother’s and now my husband’s sweaters. I love androgynous fashion in general and especially knitwear. There’s nothing sexier than a natural woman in an oversized sweater to me. I like classic styles with details that make them modern and fresh. I love vintage pieces and I live very close to Haight Street, so I often pop in the vintage stores there. The yarn quality isn’t usually great and the fit and style is usually a bit off, but I often find a detail that I love that inspires. We’re also in the country quite often, Petaluma and Chico, and on the coast a lot too. Those environments inspire and natural beauty influence my designs. Your studio is such a unique space. Tell us a little bit about it and what you enjoy about the space itself. When I started Tempest + Bentley I was working from our home. The first year and half it was great, but as you can imagine, sweaters started filling our house and it was time to move on. I was very lucky to be introduced to my space in the Potrero District of San Francisco. It’s a big old warehouse and my neighbors are a range of creative individuals and businesses. There’s a start up coffee company, a 3-D printing business, wood workers and artists. I love the big windows, the natural light and the energy of the surrounding design community. What’s been the most rewarding part of building your own line? The people I’ve met, the community I’m now a part of. The fashion community, and especially the sustainable fashion and lifestyle community. I’ve been overwhelmed by how supportive people have been and continue to be as I launch the brand and figure out how to keep going. It’s also been amazing to see the collection come to life. To spend two years researching and working through the making of the sweaters and to see a finished collection. To be able to wear a Tempest + Bentley sweater and be proud of the efforts that were made to make it beautiful and ethical. What are you most excited for in the coming year? There’s so much more for me to learn and there are so many projects I want to work on. I hope to design a line of organic cotton sweaters very soon! Being an expert in sweaters, give us an insider tip or trick on how to properly care for them. There are a few things you can do to keep sweaters looking fresh and new. Always fold them nicely and store them in a dark clean environment so moths and pests don’t get to them. I store my sweaters with cedar blocks and lavender sachets which help keep pests away too. You don’t always need to wash the whole sweater, especially big chunky styles. Sometimes I just hand soak the cuffs and hem, as they seem to pick up dirt quicker or I’ll spot clean a bit. I use an environmentally friendly delicate hand wash. I’ve also discovered sweater shavers that get rid of pilling. There are a ton of great options out there. They’re a great tool for making a worn out sweater look new again. As you find yourself in the frenzy of holiday shopping, consider the possibility of one special gift instead of gifts you’ll never use. One of these Tempest + Bentley sweaters will last for years to come. It’s at the top of my list this year! Photos by Ali Hartwell #lifestyle #style

Today it’s all about the ladies in your life. Sometimes I find shopping for my favorite gals is the hardest shopping of the season. This year I thought about what they love and what would be on my wish list. Sometimes it is easier to buy for them off my very own wish list, which is above. There is nothing better than a new robe to curl up in or a new clutch to take out on the town. I hope this helps you figure out what to get the special ladies in your life. Shop the Gift Guide: Cocoon Coat | Classic Rose Gold & Gray Watch | Brass Table Mirror | Bobble Beanie | Indigo iPhone Case | Prisma Frame | Jo Malone Mimosa and Cardamom Candle | Transport Rucksack | Acca Kappa Metallic Brush | Buffalo Plaid Throw | Quinn Robe | Claire V. Foldover Clutch #lifestyle